Student Bullying

The Wolsey-Wessington School District is committed to maintaining a constructive, safe school climate that is conducive to student learning and fostering an environment in which all students are treated with respect and dignity.

Persistent bullying can severely inhibit a student’s ability to learn and may have lasting negative effects on a student’s life. The bullying of students by students, staff or third parties is strictly prohibited and shall not be tolerated.

Bullying consists of repeated physical, verbal, non-verbal, written, electronic or any conduct directed toward a student(s) that is so pervasive, severe and objectively offensive that it:

1.has the purpose of creating or resulting in an intimidating, hostile or offensive academic environment, or

2.has the purpose or effect of substantially or unreasonably interfering with a student’s academic performance which deprives the student access to educational opportunities.

This policy is in effect while students are on property within the jurisdiction of the School Board; while students are in school-owned or school-operated vehicles; while students are attending or engaged in school-sponsored activities; and while students are away from school grounds if the misconduct directly affects the good order, efficient management and welfare of the student or the District.

The District will act to investigate all complaints (formal or informal, verbal or written) of bullying. Any student engaging in an act of bullying will be subject to the progressive discipline plan outlined in Policy JK – Student Discipline.

This policy shall not be interpreted to prohibit civil exchange of opinions or debate protected under the state or federal constitutions where the opinion expressed does not otherwise materially or substantially disrupt the education process or intrude upon the rights of others.